Slovakia’s healthcare system faces growing pressure due to an ageing population, rising healthcare costs and a shortage of medical staff. These challenges were discussed at the conference Health as an Investment, organized by the Association of Employers’ Unions. Participants agreed that the sector will require major reforms and stronger cooperation between the state, healthcare providers, and others.
Experts stressed the need to improve hospital efficiency and increase the number of Slovak students studying healthcare professions among others. Greater investment in innovation and digitalization were also highlighted as essential.
According to parliamentary health committee chair Vladimír Baláž, demographic changes will significantly affect the type of healthcare services required in the future. Baláž says, it is also important to observe the length of active life of people born in Slovakia.
Health Minister Kamil Šaško confirmed that the government is preparing several measures, including a new law on medicines, an oncology action plan and a strategy for healthcare workforce development until 2040. Insurance representatives also emphasized the importance of prevention and healthier lifestyles to reduce future pressure on the system.
Source: TASR
